The European Parliament has voted to give member states authority over cultivating GMO crops. But environmental groups have criticized an opt-out measure.
The genetically modified (GM) crops controversy has reached new heights after the European Parliament in Strasbourg passed a new law that allows member states to decide on their production. The measure passed on Tuesday by 480 votes to 159, with 58 abstentions.
If a GM crop is ruled safe by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), member states can then decide to opt out from cultivating it. There are currently eight GM crops that have been given the green light for cultivation in the EU. Since 1998, only MON 810 crops, owned by Monsanto, are being cultivated in the EU, with Spain contributing to 90% of the total production. Tuesday's decision, however, could mean that the seven other approved GM crops could start being produced on European soil.
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